Matera’s dramatic landscape and ancient cave dwellings make it a perfect city for walking tours. The winding alleys, impressive rock-cut churches, and centuries-old houses tell stories that are best experienced with a guide. We particularly like tours that blend history, culture, and practical access, such as the guided city center tour with cave churches and the discover Matera, the ancient city, which provide rich insights into this UNESCO treasure. These experiences go beyond just ticking off sights—they immerse you in the local story, making each step memorable.
Matera’s appeal lies in its layered history and unique architecture, which can be best appreciated through guided walking tours. Whether you’re after a detailed exploration of the Sassi districts or a quick overview of the city’s highlights, options abound. For those wanting a flexible, all-access experience, the Sassi di Matera Pass and City Cards offers a practical way to visit multiple sites without hassle. Below, we explore each tour to help you find the right fit for your trip.
1. Matera: Guided City Center Tour with Cave Churches & Houses
Starting with this 2-hour guided walking tour, you get a deep dive into the Sassi district, visiting rock-cut churches and houses with an authorized guide. The tour offers entry to cave churches and dwellings like Casa Grotta, giving you a real feel for how people lived centuries ago. This tour is ideal for visitors who want an intimate experience—small groups, often just four people, mean plenty of personalized attention.
Led by knowledgeable guides, such as Patricia, the tour covers key sites like the Church of Saint Mary of Idris and scenic walks through Sasso Caveoso. Reviews praise the easy pace and the guide’s ability to answer questions clearly. One guest described it as “really enjoyable,” highlighting the small group setting that makes the experience more personal. The tour’s focus on local history and architecture makes it perfect for travelers interested in the stories behind Matera’s cave dwellings.
Bottom line: This tour offers a personalized, immersive experience with an emphasis on history and architecture, making it perfect for those who want an in-depth look with expert guidance.
2. Discover Matera, the ancient city – English tour
Coming in as the most highly rated option, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating from over 1,500 reviews, this 2 to 3-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at Matera’s Sassi districts. It’s run by guides passionate about revealing the evolution of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, focusing on the Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano neighborhoods.
What sets this apart is its approach—it’s not just about visiting churches, but about understanding how Matera transitioned from “the shame of Italy” to a celebrated historic center. The guide walks you through steep alleys, rupestrian structures, and hidden corners, sharing stories and insights that you won’t find on a typical tourist route. The tour’s small-group format ensures you get personalized attention, and the guide’s enthusiasm makes the city come alive.
Guests mention the guide’s genuine interest and ability to show overlooked details, such as small chapels and traditional homes. Its relaxed pace and storytelling style make it suitable for travelers who want a meaningful experience without rushing.
Bottom line: If you want a detailed, passionate guide who takes you beyond the obvious sights, this tour offers outstanding value and insight.
$34.58 per person
3. Sassi di Matera Pass and City Cards Official
For those who prefer a flexible, self-guided experience, the Sassi di Matera Pass is an excellent choice. Priced at around $35, it grants access to six key sites, including rupestrian churches, cave dwellings, and museums, all with a single ticket. The pass is perfect if you’re comfortable exploring on your own or want to combine a few visits over a day or two.
The pass includes entry to sites like the Casa Grotta Narrante, where you can see how inhabitants lived, and the Hypogea of San Giorgio. The audio guides and included tickets make self-guided exploration straightforward, especially if you prefer to set your own pace. Reviews note that the pass offers decent value, especially if you plan to visit multiple locations.
However, this option lacks the storytelling element of guided tours, so it’s best suited for independent travelers who enjoy self-directed exploration or those on a budget. It’s also helpful for visitors with mobility in mind, as you can choose which sites to visit and when.
Bottom line: The City Card offers flexibility and value for travelers eager to explore Matera’s key sites at their own pace without the pressure of a guided tour.
4. Matera: complete tour of the city of the Sassi
The shortest option, this 1-hour tour is designed for travelers with limited time who want a quick overview of Matera’s most iconic sights. It covers the essential highlights, ensuring you get a good sense of the city without committing to a lengthy walk.
Led by a local guide, this tour is accessible and straightforward, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It’s great if you’re just passing through or want a snapshot before exploring more on your own. The focus is on highlighting key attractions and providing a quick orientation of Matera’s unique landscape.
While it offers less depth than longer tours, it’s praised for being informative and well-paced. For travelers who prefer a concise introduction, this is a practical option, especially if combined with a self-guided walk or visit to specific sites afterward.
Bottom line: Ideal for those short on time but still eager to see Matera’s most famous spots, this tour provides a quick, engaging overview.
$34 per person
How to Choose Your Ideal Matera Tour
When considering which tour suits you best, think about your budget, time constraints, and how deep you want to go into Matera’s story. If you’re after a thorough, personal experience, the guided city center tour or the Discover Matera will satisfy your curiosity. For independent travelers or those on a tighter budget, the City Pass offers a good mix of value and flexibility.
Consider your fitness level and interests. The guided tours involve some walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. Booking early is advisable during peak months, especially for popular guided options, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final thoughts
Matera is a city that rewards curiosity and exploration. Whether you opt for a detailed guided walk, a flexible pass to see multiple sites, or a quick overview, each tour provides a different way to appreciate this astonishing landscape. For travelers wanting an in-depth and engaging experience, the Discover Matera stands out. For those seeking a personal touch and local stories, the guided city center tour is excellent.
No matter your choice, remember to book early during busy seasons. Matera’s timeless allure makes each visit special—don’t miss out on experiencing it with the tour that best matches your style.